ABs’ front row, lock it in

Codie Taylor is poised to re-sign with NZ Rugby, joining a bundle of other front rowers locked into deals through to the 2019 World Cup.

Positive feedback during contract negotiations mean hooker Taylor, who started all three tests in the 1-1 series draw with the British and Irish Lions while Dane Coles was recovering from concussion, should add to his 19 caps with the All Blacks beyond this season. He is also set to remain with the Crusaders.

‘‘I am still going through that process but I think we will come to an agreement within the next couple of weeks,’’ Taylor, 26, said.

‘‘It is all looking pretty good for me, and I am really keen to stay on board with NZ Rugby and just keep pushing my case.’’

Taylor’s desire to remain in New Zealand means the All Blacks should have a deep pool of front rowers to call upon ahead of the global tournament in Japan.

Hookers Liam Coltman and Coles are contracted to 2019, as are props Owen Franks and Joe Moody. Loosehead specialist Wyatt Crockett, a regular substitute for Moody in the tests, is committed until 2018. Nepo Laulala and Kane Hames have both signed deals through to 2020.

This week All Blacks and Crusaders midfielder Ryan Crotty confirmed he has signed a one-year deal, but Malakai Fekitoa appears poised to leave and join wealthy French club Toulon.

This week Taylor returned to active duty for the Crusaders, and will start the Super Rugby quarterfinal against the Highlanders in Christchurch on Saturday night.

Coach Scott Robertson elected to rest Moody, Taylor and Franks prior to their 31-22 loss to the Hurricanes last weekend, having heeded medical advice about player welfare after they had been put through the grinder during the Lions series.

Usually front rowers get substituted around the one-hour mark but Taylor averaged 71 minutes a game prior to being replaced by Nathan Harris. He clocked-up a maximum of 79 minutes in the second test in Wellington as the 14-man All Blacks side tried to stay in the contest before losing 21-18.

Taylor had to have pain killer injections in the rib cage area during the series to ensure he wasn’t in discomfort.